Hydrogen production technology is constantly evolving, and AEM (Anion Exchange Membrane) electrolysers represent an innovative solution for obtaining green hydrogen through an electrolysis process. Thus, these electrolysers represent a viable technological alternative for companies committed to the energy transition and the reduction of carbon emissions.
Let us take a closer look at the features of this technology, what advantages it brings and what its current limitations are.
How AEM electrolysers work
AEM electrolysers use an anion exchange membrane to separate water molecules (H₂O) into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂). In this process, an alkaline electrolyte solution, often containing potassium hydroxide, is used to improve the conduction of ions across the membrane. During electrolysis, hydroxide ions (OH-) migrate from the cathode to the anode through the AEM membrane. This technology makes it possible to produce high-purity hydrogen with a lower environmental impact than other processes, as the materials that make up these systems are more common than the rare earths that are usually used and involve greater emissions for their extraction.
In addition, AEM systems can operate at high current densities and differential pressures, with very low PGM in the stack.
Want to learn more about the process and how electrolysis works?
Read our article: Electrolysis: the technology that turns electricity into hydrogen
The advantages of electrolysis with AEM technology
The use of AEM electrolysers for hydrogen production has a number of advantages.
1. Reduced costs: unlike proton exchange membrane electrolysers (PEM), AEM technology does not require the use of precious metals such as platinum for the catalysts, significantly reducing production costs. In addition, these systems have a simplified BOP that makes them more competitive.
2. Environmental sustainability: this technology can be combined with renewable energy sources, facilitating carbon-neutral production of green hydrogen.
3. Flexibility and scalability: thanks to their adaptability, AEM electrolysers can be used in different types of plants, from small local production to large-scale applications for energy or chemical industries. The AEM stack has immediate scalability from a few kW up to over 1 MW and is expected to reach between 4 and 6 MW in the future.
4.Stability and conductivity: the AEM system offers great stability at high temperatures, as well as high conductivity.
These advantages make AEM technology one of the most promising options for companies wishing to invest in efficient and environmentally friendly hydrogen production.
The challenges of electrolysis with AEM technology
In addition to the important advantages already listed, however, electrolysis with AEM also has some challenges.
One of the main limitations is the shorter lifetime of AEM membranes compared to those used in PEM technology, with possible additional costs for membrane replacement in the long term.
Furthermore, the alkaline electrolyte solution used in AEM electrolysers can be vulnerable to contamination and impurities, which reduce system efficiency and require frequent maintenance.
Moreover, although the efficiency of AEM electrolysers is continuously improving, there are now technologies that offer superior energy performance, making it less competitive in large-scale or high energy demand environments.
However, the prospects for the development of AEM technology are very promising, and the gradual refinement of AEM electrolysers will allow them to overcome their current limitations over time. In fact, numerous research projects aimed at improving membrane life and optimising system efficiency are underway.
The different types of electrolysers
In addition to those with AEM technology, there are also other types of electrolysers that differ in structure and mode of operation:
- Alkaline electrolysers (AWE)
- Proton exchange membrane electrolysers (PEM)
- Solid Oxide Electrolysers
In alkaline electrolysis, hydroxide ions are transported through an alkaline solution and a diaphragm from a cathode to an anode.
In contrast, proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEM) is based on a polymer membrane acting as an electrolyte to conduct protons from the anode to the cathode.
Finally, solid oxide electrolysers use a solid ceramic material as the electrolyte, which conducts negatively charged oxygen ions from the cathode to the anode.
Each of these technologies has specific characteristics, with their advantages and limitations, which make them more or less suitable for specific production contexts and industrial sectors.
However, due to its characteristics, the AEM technology represents the natural evolution of the AWE and PEM systems, combining the advantages of both with more competitive prices. In fact, this technology allows a cost reduction of EUR 0.50-0.70/kg H2 compared to traditional systems.
Simplifhy’s role in implementing your plant with AEM
Simplifhy supports companies and institutions in choosing the most appropriate hydrogen production technologies for their energy needs. Thanks to a network of technology partners and the established know-how of our team, we are able to assist customers in adopting AEM electrolysers and other advanced technologies for hydrogen production.
In particular, thanks to our partnership with Enapter, we integrate the German company’s AEM electrolysers into green hydrogen production plants in Italy. The patented technology developed by Enapter enables the mass production of plug-and-play green hydrogen electrolysers at low cost and on any scale.
Among our most recent applications using AEM technology is the Power-to-gas system for hydrogen production and storage that we are developing in the Sotacarbo laboratory in Sardinia.
We are also currently developing AEM electrolysers from other suppliers, with which we will be able to realise new projects using this innovative technology.
Contact us to realise your plant with AEM technology.
